By Isabella Milano By Isabella Milano | November 28, 2022 | Lifestyle, Feature, culture, Guide,
From walks along the Anacostia River to soaring baseballs at Nationals Park, DC's Navy Yard is the place to be. Yards Park remains the hub for all things exciting: Think tasty restaurants and wineries, vast lawn spaces, unique shops and more. Priding itself in its plethora of amenities all within walkable distances, the area remains an exciting neighborhood full of historical and contemporary locales.
Where To Eat
1346 4th St., SE, albidc.com
Join chef/owner Michael Rafidi in the back of the house for “Sofra” at the Hearth Table—a two and a half hour dining experience blending traditional Levantine food with the modernities of local ingredients. Looking for an à la carte evening? Albi’s indulgent dinner menu ranges from sunchoke arayes snacks to flavorful grilled whole branzinos.
1331 4th St., SE, restaurantchloe.com
Voyage through the delectable cuisines of Western Europe and Southeast Asia—all in the setting of the pleasantly chic, eclectic dining room. Chef Haidar Karoum demonstrates his culinary expertise from his personal travels and Lebanese roots in each plate. Our favorite dish? The ambrosial ahi tuna tartare—its wasabi-soy emulsion leaves you eager for more.
79 Potomac Ave., SE, jackiedc.com
The Kennedy’s give their seal of approval for this one—dine at Jackie DC for a 60’s take on classic American bistro. Steak frites, pesto pomodoro bucatini, and tomato and burrata are just a few of the savory items featured in the dinner menu. Top the delectable night off with a sweet treat like pistachio cakes paired with Warre's Otima 20-year Portugal port.
360 Water St. SE, shillingcanning.com
In 1935, the Shilling family began canning produce from neighboring farms and the legacy of utmost quality continues with the sumptuous atmosphere of Shilling Canning Company. Spoonfuls of chesapeake chowder and crispy chicken ballotine stand as popular hits on the menu, but recommended for a more exclusive dine is the private Chef’s Counter for a seven course tasting based on seasonal ingredients.
Where To Stay
221 Tingey St., SE, hyatt.com
Maritime chic is the name of the game at this luxury hotel in the heart of the Navy Yard. Expect decor resembling the interiors of a ship’s cabin as you sway to sleep—not to forget the breathtaking views of the Anacostia River and thrilling Nationals Park. If you get tired of the three on-site spots to drink and dine, a variety of delectable restaurants are only steps away.
Where To Relax
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1212 4th St. SE, auraspa.net
The ultimate holistic wellness escape awaits with services ranging from warm stone massages to curated facials. In addition to the individual rejuvenating treatments, Aura Spa also offers three spa packages sure to relax your inner soul: therapeutic massages, facials and waxing. Allot some self-care time within your trip to the Navy Yard to ensure a day well-spent.
230 3rd St. SE, silvermirror.com
You will be glowing for days after a trip to Silver Mirror, thanks to their abundance of facial and peel services. The 30-minute facials are designed to revive the skin in no time while the 50-minute services offer a more curated treatment to target your most pressing concerns—add on the custom jelly mask for an extra boost of nourishment.
Where To Shop
1239 1st St. SE, somewhereofficial.com
When asked where you want to go shopping, saying “somewhere” now has a definitive location. Brands like Bianca Chandon, Human Made, Mihara Yasuhiro and more can be found on the shelves of Somewhere located just outside the ballpark. Make sure to eye the website from time to time to see what brands are currently being featured in the shop.
For Pre-Dinner Drinks
385 Water St. SE, districtwinery.com
The wine connoisseur is sure to love this one—District Winery offers immersive wine tours to gain knowledge on the wine production process with seasonal small plates and wine selections to wrap up the journey. Lounge at the bar for an array of flights to select from or a glass of their classic 2017 Zinfandel before venturing around the Navy Yard.
1346 4th St. SE, maxwelldcwine.com
Beats of hip-hop and 90’s hits bounce across the walls of this contemporary, yet relaxed wine bar located conveniently in between restaurants Chloe and Albi. The selection boasts over 50 wines by the glass all stored in their controlled refrigerator system—four different temperature zones emphasize the nuances of each sip. Many of the wines rotate based on the season, so a few trips are required.
867 New Jersey Ave. SE, smokeandmirrorsrooftop.com
There’s no better view of the Capitol than the cityscape shot at Smoke & Mirrors rooftop bar. Admire the sunset over D.C. as you sip on the Jungle Bird for a coconut rum, pineapple, lime and campari concoction or head to the inside bar area to warm up with the Sprinter to Quebec—a rye whiskey base with hints of maple syrup, apple bitters and cocoa.
Where To Hit The Town
700 M St. SE, capitalturnaround.com
What was once a historical car barn from the 1800s has now been converted into a grand event venue housing multiple spaces for a variety of events and parties—previously shown on Union Stage was the live podcast Men in Blazers. Book one of their private Green Rooms with a group of friends or attend a performance in the state-of-the-art auditorium.
Cultural Experiences
736 Sicard St. SE, history.navy.mil
When you find yourself in the Navy Yard, a quick history lesson is a must. The National Museum of the U.S. showcases a variety of naval artifacts to honor wartime heroes and peacetime efforts. Examine the 1793 Quasi-War French gun as the first ever artifact collected for the museum or gain knowledge in covert submarine operations during the Cold War—the choice is yours.
10 N St. SE, mlb.com
Feel the breeze of the Anacostia River as you munch on the abundance of Nationals food options from the perimeter of the stadium. Whether you are moving to the sounds of your favorite performer or cheering on the Washington Nationals, every experience at the ballpark is destined to be a memorable one.
Hidden Gem
Yards Park
355 Water St. SE, capitolriverfront.org
A vast green lawn, scenic bridge and entertaining fountains are some of the few features Yards Park has in store. Furry friends even have a place to hang at the Dog Run—a leash-free fenced area located right off the Great Lawn. When the days get jam-packed with things to do and places to be, a brief stop to relax at Yards Park will surely restore your energy.
Photography by: Sung Shin/Unsplash